Viral noncoding RNAs (Epstein Barr virus-encoded RNAs, EBERs) are believed to play a critical role in the progression of lymphoma and nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). However, the accurate mechanisms accounting for their oncogenic function have not been elucidated, especially in terms of interaction between tumor cells and mesenchymal cells. Here, we report that, in addition to NPC cells, EBERs are also found in endothelial cells in Epstein Barr virus (EBV)-infected NPC parenchymal tissues, which implicates NPC-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) in transmitting EBERs to endothelial cells. In support of this hypothesis, we first ascertained if EBERs could be transferred to endothelial cells via EVs isolated from NPC culture supernatant. Then, we clarified that EVsderived EBERs could promote angiogenesis through stimulation of VCAM-1 expression. Finally, we explored the involvement of EBER recognition by TLR3 and RIG-I in NPC angiogenesis. Our observations collectively illustrate the significance and mechanism of EVs-derived EBERs in angiogenesis and underlie the interaction mechanisms between EBV-infected NPC cells and the tumor microenvironment.
[1]Cent S Univ, Xiangya Hosp, Ctr Mol Med, Changsha, Hunan, Peoples R China;
[2]Cent S Univ, Collaborat Innovat Ctr Canc Med, Changsha, Hunan, Peoples R China;
[3]Key Lab Mol Radiat Oncol Hunan Prov, Changsha, Hunan, Peoples R China;
[4]Cent S Univ, Xiangya Hosp, Dept Pathol, Changsha, Hunan, Peoples R China;
[5]Cent S Univ, Xiangya Hosp, Dept Oncol, Changsha, Hunan, Peoples R China;
[6]Cent S Univ, Xiangya Hosp, Dept Pharm, Changsha 410008, Hunan, Peoples R China;
[7]Fudan Univ, Shanghai Inst Med Image, Shanghai 200032, Peoples R China
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